Clearing land can be a small job or a large one. The terrain can be either yielding or stubborn. Furthermore, budgets might be generous or modest. A number of variables affect the way landowners decide to remove brush and shrubbery. Among the most significant expenses is a forestry mulcher. In addition to size and capacity, purchasers consider brand reputation; price and quality; and personal experience. New users should consider the following five guidelines in selecting a new (or used) forestry mulcher. These tips can assist in buying all the mulcher needed yet only the mulcher needed. Your own situation should govern this acquisition.
1: Calculate the Acreage
Forestry mulchers go beyond chopping and uprooting to grinding and pulverizing, They can be mounted to skid steers, tractors, or other multi-terrain vehicles. Utilizing vertical or horizontal shafts, they can clear trees and other thicket that impede the use and development of land. The usual blade-cutting dimensions range from 14 to 18 inches so size selection factors should include the amount of land in need of clearance and time allocated for typical projects.
2: Factor in Vegetation
Not only does the expanse of land make a difference, but its soil and growth are also considerations. Some plants demand more effort than others. Tree of Heaven and Brazilian Peppertree are notorious examples. Because the horizontal drum is continuously chipping while the mulcher cuts, models with this feature should not be discounted when confronting stubborn growth.
3: Ask About the Reputation
As with any piece of heavy machinery, consumers do well to consult public opinion relative to the purchase of a forestry mulcher. Somebody with experience is the best reference in terms of practical results and technical limitations. Online user forums abound, though you might find passionately differing opinions. Other input is found through farm bureaus, outdoor publications, and neighbors who manage similar terrain.
4: Think About the Investment
A large, forbidding tract to clear calls for a large and tough forestry mulcher. However, most people face financial limitations sooner or later. The highest-performance mulchers with the largest drums can run close to $50,000. Yet other new models are listed for less than $20,000. If land clearing will be a rare event, rentals are always available. Otherwise, you can find good deals on used mulchers with construction equipment locators and general sites like eBay.
5: Determine the Longevity
Unlike a car, a forestry mulcher is evaluated not by miles traveled but by acres worked per hour. What sort of “shelf life” does a working model have? When does it reach its point of exhaustion? Again, this variable is also contingent on the expected frequency of use. Still, these are good questions to ask a dealer when shopping for a forestry mulcher. Additionally, and most importantly, ask whether the warranty reflects these expectations. The warranty represents a manufacturer’s confidence in its product.
Because land is different, owners are different and goals are different, the options available will also vary so it’s best to research your options and reach out to a professional to help you make a selection.
